Cheap Auto Insurance in NC: Everything You Need to Know

When it comes to auto insurance in North Carolina, cost is an important factor for many drivers. The good news is that there are ways to find cheap auto insurance in NC without sacrificing coverage or quality. In this article, we’ll explore the basics of car insurance in NC, tips for getting the best rates, and frequently asked questions.

Understanding Auto Insurance in NC

Before we dive into the specifics of finding cheap auto insurance in NC, it’s important to understand the basics of auto insurance in this state.

Minimum Requirements

In North Carolina, drivers are required to have liability insurance with the following minimum limits:

Liability Coverage	Minimum Limits
Bodily Injury	$30,000 per person/$60,000 per accident
Property Damage	$25,000 per accident

Liability insurance covers damages that you cause to others in an accident. However, it does not cover damage to your own vehicle or injuries to you or your passengers. For that, you’ll need additional coverage.

Additional Coverage Options

While liability insurance is the only coverage required by law in NC, there are several additional options that you may want to consider, including:

• Collision coverage: covers damage to your own vehicle in an accident
• Comprehensive coverage: covers damage to your vehicle from non-accident events, such as theft or weather damage
• Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage: covers damages if you’re in an accident with a driver who doesn’t have insurance or doesn’t have enough insurance to cover your damages
• Medical payments coverage: covers medical expenses for you and your passengers if you’re injured in an accident, regardless of who is at fault

Keep in mind that adding these additional coverage options will increase your premium, but they may be worth it for the added protection.

Tips for Finding Cheap Auto Insurance in NC

Now that you understand the basics of auto insurance in NC, let’s explore tips for finding cheap car insurance.

Shop Around

One of the best ways to find cheap auto insurance in NC is to shop around and compare rates from different insurance companies. Each company uses its own formula to determine rates, so it’s important to get multiple quotes to find the best deal.

Ask About Discounts

Many insurance companies offer discounts for various factors, such as:

• Good driving record
• Multiple vehicles on the policy
• Bundling with other types of insurance, such as homeowners or renters insurance
• Safe driving courses completed

Be sure to ask about any available discounts when getting quotes from different insurance companies.

Consider Deductibles

The deductible is the amount you pay out of pocket before your insurance coverage kicks in. Generally, the higher your deductible, the lower your premium. However, it’s important to choose a deductible that you can afford in the event of an accident.

Review Your Coverage Annually

As your driving habits and life circumstances change, your auto insurance needs may also change. It’s a good idea to review your coverage annually and make any necessary adjustments to ensure you’re not paying for coverage you don’t need, or that you have enough coverage for your current situation.

Consider Pay-Per-Mile Insurance

For drivers who don’t drive often, pay-per-mile insurance may be a way to save money on auto insurance. With this type of policy, you pay a base rate plus a per-mile rate based on how much you drive. This can be a cost-effective option for drivers who only use their vehicles occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about auto insurance in NC:

Is it legal to drive without insurance in NC?

No, it’s not legal to drive without insurance in NC. Drivers are required to have liability insurance with the minimum limits outlined above.

What happens if I’m in an accident and don’t have insurance?

If you’re in an accident and don’t have insurance, you could face fines, license suspension, and even criminal charges. You could also be held personally responsible for any damages or injuries you cause in the accident.

Can I get insurance with a suspended license?

It’s possible to get insurance with a suspended license, but it may be more difficult and expensive. Some insurance companies may not offer coverage to drivers with a suspended license, while others may require proof of reinstatement before providing coverage.

What factors affect my auto insurance rates?

Several factors can affect your auto insurance rates, including:

• Your driving record
• Your age and gender
• Your location
• The make and model of your vehicle
• Your credit score

Keep in mind that each insurance company weighs these factors differently, so rates can vary widely from company to company.

How can I find the best auto insurance rates?

To find the best auto insurance rates, it’s important to shop around and compare quotes from multiple insurance companies. Be sure to ask about available discounts and consider adjusting your coverage levels or deductible to find the best balance of price and coverage.

By following these tips and understanding the basics of auto insurance in NC, you can find cheap car insurance without sacrificing quality or coverage.